Information – K Termite

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites, as their name implies, live in the soil beneath and around homes, often entering through wood that is in contact with the ground. They can also construct mud tubes from the ground to their target, your home. Subterranean termites pose a serious threat, causing billions of damage in structural damage every year. Because they typically come from the ground up, infestations often go undetected for years.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites are more prevalent, entering wood through exposed vents, cracks, and holes in wood. As a result, they’re found typically in garages, attics, and walls of structures. Drywood termites get the moisture they need to survive from the wood they eat. and from the humidity in the air. The more warm and humid the climate (California), the greater they thrive.

Fungus/Dryrot

Dryrot is a condition when fungus breaks down wood fibers that give wood strength and stiffness. This renders the wood weak and brittle, hence the name dry rot. Excess moisture is a root cause of this condition. Fungus and dryrot, like termites, thrive in warm, humid climates such as California.

Common Signs

Look out for these common signs of termite infestations.

Wood Damage

        Termites prefer to be in the dark and feed on the interior rather than the surface of wood. Look for small holes, cracks, and punctures in wood which may sound hollow when tapped.      

Termite Swarmers

        Usually during spring and fall, both drywood and subterranean termites begin to swarm. Swarming termites can fly and look for more wood to start new colonies.      

Discarded Wings

        Piles of discarded wings are a big indicator. Swarming Termites discard their wings once they land at the desired location.      

Fecal Pellets

        When termites feed on wood, they digest the cellulose and leave fecal droppings shaped like tiny hexagonal pellets, or frass for short. These droppings resemble sawdust and are found below infested wood.      

Mud Tubes

        Any sign of mud tubes along walls and foundations is a clear indication of subterranean termites. As subterranean termites come from the ground up, the first thing they target is often your foundation.      